Fistric seems to be a good fit for Ducks

ANAHEIM – A common theory in NHL circles is that a team can never have too many defensemen, as the nature of the position often takes a toll on those practitioners.

The Ducks didn’t even get into the new season before finding they had to keep their cabinet full. Sheldon Souray’s torn wrist ligament while working out in July opened up a sizable hole.

Mark Fistric won’t be expected to fill it but the physical defender could help make up for Souray’s absence that’ll last until midseason. Ducks general manager Bob Murray had him in mind all summer but made a final push to sign him after Souray was hurt.

Having played against them for some years while with Dallas, Fistric likes the fit.

“Anaheim expressed interest throughout the summer,” said Fistric, who signed a one-year deal worth $900,000. “Obviously Bob and my agent were having discussions. I think it made sense for us, just in basically with the way Anaheim plays.

“They’re a big team and they play heavy. I think that those are my strongest assets. Coming into a team that has an identity of being hard to play against is beneficial for me.”

Fistric had thought he was a fit in Edmonton as his take-no-prisoners style seemed to complement the puck-moving defensemen in the Oilers’ corps. The Ducks and others know that the tank-like defenseman likes to hit.

Talks with Edmonton never seemed to gain traction and Fistric also thinks the general manager switch from Steve Tambellini to Craig MacTavish was a signal the Oilers were going away from him.

“Talks between me and the Oilers were kind of mind-boggling at times,” Fistric said. “One minute, it was one way, and the next day it was another thing. Just kind of got frustrated to the point where you really didn’t know if you want to be back.

“And obviously it turned out great, to come to a team here that’s going to win. I’m excited.”

Fistric has been a depth player that his teams have turned to in times of need or for matchup purposes against bigger teams. He’s on a one-way deal but might need to work to fully secure a roster spot, likely as the seventh defenseman.

Hampus Lindholm is pushing for a place among the Ducks’ top six while Nolan Yonkman and Kyle Cumiskey also offer competition in camp. Ducks coach Bruce Boudreau said he’ll get a better gauge on Fistric after some exhibition games.

“He’s not going to come out and one night score three goals and dazzle you,” Boudreau said. “He’s a stay-at-home, solid, big, strong, thick defenseman.”

A veteran of 282 NHL games, Fistric sees a chance to help the Ducks immediately.

“With Shelly’s injury, it definitely gives me an opportunity,” he said. “It’s up to me to come in here and play hard and play well and help the team win. My priority is to do everything in my power to help the team win.”

LARGE ROSTER

The Ducks have 58 players in camp, including a couple on tryouts. Boudreau didn’t rule out whittling the number down before Monday’s exhibition opener against Phoenix.

“The biggest thing in the minds of coaches and managers is guys have worked hard all summer. You’d like to be able to see them get a chance,” he said. “And then at the same time, you’ve got to get to your team because it’s all about getting your team ready for the start of the season. So you battle yourself with those two concepts. If you can get both of them done, great.”

NOTES

Count Peter Holland as one that is impressing early in camp. Boudreau said he was the best player in the club’s second scrimmage, which was won, 4-2, by the Black squad.

“What I notice of Peter is his compete level is really good right now,” Boudreau said. “If it’s a battle, he’s fighting right to the end. Whether he wins the battle or not, he’s not giving up on the fight.” …

Center Nick Bonino was hit in the mouth by a deflected puck during practice but Boudreau reported no teeth were lost.